** spoiler alert **
This proved a Mary Russell novel of top caliber. The author challenges the reader to follow a very complicated trail entwining history, greed, the struggles of colonial powers, corruption, and the consciences of her protagonists--in this case all four of them!

Apart from the mystery, the period and setting are particularly challenging--the contenders being Spain, France, England, Germany and three native factions. Balancing them all within the narrative of her (intrigue-minded) characters kept me busy backing up whole chapters and rereading paragraphs to be certain I was still on the trail. I don't say this to fault the writing, but to demonstrate the depth of the work. "Garments" is a demanding read, a thoughtful read.

That said, the farther one progresses into the book, the harder it becomes to put it down. The ending is a revelation, inside a revelation, inside a revelation enclosed by an ethical conflict.

The afterword should not be missed. It brings closure to the story of the birth of Morocco and the prominent historical figures who played a role in its foundations.

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